PLAY REVIEW: The Chaos That Has Been and will No Doubt Return ★★★★★

After a sell out and critically acclaimed run at The Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2024, Chalk Line Theatre have brought their ferociously energetic and lyrically charged production to The Southwark Playhouse, where the surrounding walls packs a powerful atmospheric shell, where in London’s colder spotlight its poetic fervour can occasionally feel overwhelming. 

Written and co‑directed by Sam Edmunds, who shares the responsibility with Vikesh Godhwani, Chaos… offers a real‑time snapshot of youth culture in austerity‑stricken Luton—two best mates on the brink of adulthood, chasing thrills and dealing with the undercurrents of violence in their neglected town. Edmunds weaves in Luton’s history, from hat‑making fumes to wartime industry, that helps weave a layered backdrop that grounds the frenetic present within a deeper context, whereas Rob Miles’s set, consisting of clever brick‑box panels toggling between street, bedroom, and party spaces, works with the kinetic lighting to heighten the sensory rush.

Bursting with physicality, the company of three sketch a community rich in texture through impeccable multi-rolling; Nathaniel Christian (Voice) and Elan Butler (Lewis) deliver mischievous, laddish energy, navigating partying and first crushes with sharp, authentic detail. They both lash onto each others mannerisms with ease, and whilst at times their friendship is tested, the way the writing allows us to care for these two characters is a real testament when events that unfold have us agasp. Leanne Henlon shines as Lakesha, effortlessly balancing humour and nuance. With a perfect pitch for comic timing, her portrayal of Mum will have you in stitches, which cannot be further away from the truth when she later morphs into the tormented Brooke Boy, cold and ruthless, with a menacing nature.

On the whole, this is theatre that doesn’t just tell, it breathes; gritty, urgent, humane. It grabs you, holds you tight, and somehow leaves you hoping just enough. A raw, hopeful, and memorable piece of fringe work now amplified on a London stage.

The Chaos That Has Been and will No Doubt Return plays at The Southwark Playhouse (Borough) until 27th September.